Zaynar set to use cheekpieces

JCB Triumph Hurdle favourite Zaynar will have the assistance of a pair of cheekpieces in Friday's showdown.

Unbeaten in both his starts for Nicky Henderson, the grey drew a little criticism from some quarters for not winning his most recent race at Ascot in quite as impressive fashion as on debut at Newbury.

‘We did put some cheekpieces on him and jumped four hurdles,’ explained Henderson.

‘It wasn't a complete revelation - it's just because both times he has run he has gone through what you might call a little bit of a flat spot and I think he's quite inexperienced.

‘They always go a good gallop in the Triumph and I am just going to try and make it a bit easier for him and Barry (Geraghty). If he went through a flat spot, it would help him though it.

Geraghty was on board in the exercise and feels the cheekieces could be a smart move.

‘It just smartened him up. It's not that he's ungenuine or anything,’ said the rider.

‘He's only had four runs - two on the flat and two over hurdles - and he's by Daylami, a few of his race a little bit lazily.

‘I schooled him again (on Saturday morning) and he jumped well. He's a great ride and I'm looking forward to him.

‘The form of his Ascot win last time has worked out well and he beat Walkon at Newbury before that. That was his first run and I'd say he needed it badly.

‘Walkon has improved since but they are two above-average juveniles - the two to beat - and I'd be very sweet on Zaynar,’ he told At The Races.